1868 Pattern Half Eagle. Judd-659, Pollock-732. Rarity-7-. Aluminum. Plain Edge. Proof-63 Cameo (NGC). <strong>Obv:</strong> Bust of Liberty faces left with the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA around the border and the date 1868 below. A ribbon inscribed LIBERTY binds Libertys hair, and there is a star at the top of her head. <strong>Rev:</strong> The dual denomination 5 DOLLARS / 25 FRANCS within a wreath of oak and laurel leaves. Struck in aluminum with a plain edge. The silvery-white surfaces display a strong cameo effect. Light abrasions and spots of tin pest on the rims and at the 5 of 25 FRANCS limit the grade, but this remains an impressive and desirable example of this very rare pattern issue.<p>The first attempt at an international coinage by the United States Mint, the dual denomination pattern half eagles of 1868 were created subsequent to a convention held in Paris in June of 1867. The participating nations agreed that the French Franc should serve as the basis for this proposed coinage, which in the end never advanced past the pattern stage. Survivors of the Judd-659 aluminum, plain edge type are thought to number no more than 12 coins. From RARCOAs session of Auction 87, July-August 1987, lot 1323; Lemus Collection; Heritages sale of the Queller Family Collection, Part Two, January 2009 FUN Auction, lot 1683; Heritages August 2016 ANA Signature Auction, lot 4425.
